Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has revealed why Antony has been a shadow of himself so far this season
Manchester United is currently bumbling through one of their most difficult football campaigns in decades. The poor run of results has majorly been blamed on ten Hag’s clueless and formless style of play.
A crippling injury nightmare has also had a toll on the club but most significantly a below-par performance by some players is also a key factor.
Marcus Rashford who hurled in 30 goals in all competitions last term is struggling to fit into the jigsaw and shapeless style of player so far this season. The English forward has managed just a goal and an assist in 15 games – a stark contrast to his prolific run last season.
Also, United fans are still waiting on the embers to applaud Antony’s first goal or assist this season. The former Ajax winger, who joined the club for £83m as their second most expensive last season, is nowhere to be found this season.
When asked of Antony’s poor form this season, ten Hag said United’s underwhelming start has impacted Antony’s form. He also blamed himself for the Brazilian’s slack, including the allegations against him by his former girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin.
“The team, first, and the team is not playing well when we don’t bring him the balls and I am also responsible for that.
“But obviously, there was also a lot of noise and that dropped his levels. He can do better but all the players can do better.
However, the Dutch added he is confident Antony will be back stronger and better despite the recent deadlock.
“Antony is also a fighter, he has the confidence, he is brave and I am confident he will bring the performance that he is the right player for us.”
Antony missed five games this term when sexual assault allegations from Gabriela Cavallin surfaced. After being granted a leave of absence by Manchester United and answering to police query on the allegations he was drafted back to the squad and will hope to pick up his game soon.
